AI Sparks Labor Dispute:SAG-AFTRA Seeks Protections for Game Voice Actors

SAG-AFTRA's Strike Against Video Game Giants: A Fight for AI Protections and Fair Compensation

SAG-AFTRA, the actors' and broadcasters' union, launched a strike against major video game companies on July 26th, 2024, after prolonged negotiations failed to yield an agreement on crucial issues. This action targets prominent companies including Activision, Electronic Arts, and others, highlighting deep concerns about the unchecked use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the industry.

The Core Issues: AI and Fair Compensation

The central conflict revolves around the potential misuse of AI. While not inherently opposed to AI technology, SAG-AFTRA members fear its potential to replace human performers. Key concerns include the unauthorized replication of actors' voices and likenesses, the displacement of actors in smaller roles, and the ethical implications of AI-generated content that may not align with an actor's values. The union seeks robust protections to prevent such exploitation.

Bridging the Gap: Interim Agreements and Solutions

To address the challenges, SAG-AFTRA has established several agreements designed to provide temporary solutions and allow for continued work on certain projects during the strike. These include:

• Tiered-Budget Independent Interactive Media Agreement (I-IMA): This agreement caters to indie and lower-budget games, offering a tiered structure based on production budget, incorporating AI protections previously rejected by the industry.

• Interim Interactive Media Agreement/Interim Interactive Localization Agreement: This covers various aspects of performer rights, compensation, and working conditions, explicitly excluding expansion packs and DLC. Projects approved under this agreement are exempt from the strike.

Key provisions within these interim agreements include: right of rescission, compensation details, rate maximums, AI/digital modeling stipulations, rest and meal periods, late payment protocols, health and retirement benefits, casting and audition guidelines, and provisions for overnight location work.

A Long Road to Negotiations: Union Solidarity and Determination

Negotiations began in October 2022, with SAG-AFTRA members overwhelmingly authorizing a strike in September 2023 (98.32% yes vote). While some progress was made, the lack of concrete and enforceable AI protections remains the primary obstacle.

Union leadership emphasizes the video game industry's substantial profits and the vital role of SAG-AFTRA members in bringing game characters to life. They are resolute in their demand for fair treatment and protection against AI exploitation, highlighting the industry's failure to learn from previous labor disputes. The strike underscores the union's commitment to securing a future where AI technology benefits both performers and the industry as a whole.

The strike's outcome will significantly impact the video game industry and set a precedent for how AI is integrated into future entertainment productions. SAG-AFTRA's unwavering stance signals a broader movement towards responsible AI implementation and fair compensation for creative professionals.